Tragedy: Three Israeli Hostages Accidentally Shot by IDF Soldiers
Schedschaija, Gaza Strip, December 16, 2023 – On Friday, three Israeli hostages were accidentally killed by Israeli soldiers in the Gaza Strip.
The hostages had been held by Hamas for several days and were identified as:
- Yotam Haim, a 20-year-old man from Kfar Gaza
- Samer Tallaka, a 30-year-old man from Nir Am
The Israeli military announced that during an operation in the Hamas stronghold of Schedschaija, the hostages were mistakenly identified as a threat and shot.
Minister Gantz Offers Condolences to Families
Defense Minister Benny Gantz extended his condolences to the families of the hostages. “It breaks my heart as I learn about the tragedy tonight,” he said. “I want to embrace the families – the entire nation of Israel mourns with you.”
Gantz added that the Israeli army would do everything to bring back the kidnapped individuals alive.
Criticism of the Israeli Military
Chen Avigdori, whose wife and daughter were suddenly released during the ceasefire, accused the Israeli military of making a mistake. “There is no military solution,” he said. “No time. The conclusion for anyone with both heart and mind is the same: Israel must initiate a deal to bring them back alive, not in coffins, and it must be done now.”
